This blog is dedicated to our belief that nature provides us with its own healing and restorative properties and explores how we can harness the power of nature for spa and natural beauty.

Monday, September 14, 2009

10 Uses for the Aloe Vera Plant

The aloe vera plant is easy to cultivate. Its thick, spiky green fronds add color and interest to any windowsill or garden patch, and you can grow it indoors or outside. Either way, your simple little aloe vera plant can be useful beyond just being aesthetically pleasing.

1. Treat burns. One of the most popular uses, especially in the summer time when sunburns are as in season as ice cream cones, aloe vera can instantly soothe minor burns. Cut off a piece of the frond and gently apply the juice onto the burn. It has cooling properties similar to menthol, which will instantly calm damaged skin.

2. Reduce redness on your skin. If you have some red blotches on your skin, rub some aloe vera juice on it. The redness should begin fading almost instantly.

3. Make a simple sugar rub for your dry skin. Combine two tablespoons of aloe vera, two tablespoons of brown sugar, and one teaspoon of lemon juice. Use the grainy mixture to exfoliate the rough patches on your elbows and knees.

4. Use it in place of hair gel. Instead of rubbing chemicals all over your hair, simply dip your hands into some aloe vera juice and run it through your hair. Your hair will still have that “wet look” that hair gel gives, and it’ll leave it silky when you wash it out.

5. Relieve stomach pain. Drink some aloe vera juice the next time you feel bloated or cramped. You can even mix it into your favorite drink if you do not like the taste of the plant.

6. Relieve constipation. Aloe vera has a laxative effect, so sip some of the juice when you’re feeling backed up.

7. Reduce pimple size. Rubbing the cut plant on your stubborn pimples can reduce the swelling, thereby making it less visible. It will also lessen the redness around the pimple.

8. Treat small blisters. If your new pair of shoes has given you a blister, gently rub aloe vera juice on it. The plant has a mild antibacterial property to it, giving your blisters a natural protectant.

9. Moisturize your feet. Mix together four tablespoons of aloe vera, half a cup of oatmeal, half a cup of cornmeal, and half a cup of body lotion. Apply it to your feet, focusing on your heels, and leave it on for about three minutes. Rinse off the mixture, and you’ll reveal softer feet.

10. Protect your face from the elements. Rub the aloe vera plant on your face before you set out into a harsh environment, like a sunny, windy, or snowy one. The moisturizing properties of the plant will keep your skin from chapping or drying out.

This post was contributed by Hannah Watson, who writes about the online nursing program. She welcomes your feedback at HannahWatson84@ yahoo.com